Rising Conflicts Dull Climate Concerns: A Global Shift

The Changing Landscape of Global Concerns

Recent surveys conducted by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) in collaboration with Ipsos reveal a notable shift in the collective mindset surrounding pressing global issues. As individuals juggle multiple crises, climate change appears to be taking a backseat, especially in key countries like the United States and China.

Contrary to what one might expect, fears of climate change are dropping. In fact, the proportion of participants expressing climate concerns has decreased from 34.5% in 2022-23 to 32.3% in 2025. This decline is particularly stark in Western nations that have historically been vocal about climate action efforts.

Subhra Bhattacharjee, director general of the FSC, noted, “People are just juggling multiple crises. There's also an illusion of agency, a feeling that we can do something about climate change, despite the overwhelming evidence to the contrary.”

Prioritizing Conflict Over Climate

One striking detail from the survey is the increase in concern about conflict, which rose from 43.2% to 48.4% in the same time frame. As wars rage on—especially in Europe and the Middle East—and economic fears loom large, climate change, once a central issue, is now perceived as secondary.

This changing narrative has implications for future climate policy and action. A lack of urgency surrounding climate initiatives can weaken coordinated international efforts to tackle greenhouse gas emissions, potentially leading to grave consequences for our planet.

The Implications for Policy and Action

Diminishing climate concerns could provide ammunition for skeptics of climate action, as evidenced by public figures such as former President Donald Trump, who labeled environmental initiatives as scams. The rhetoric surrounding climate issues is not only polarizing but dangerously undermines trust in scientific consensus.

Bhattacharjee emphasized the necessity of reframing climate conversations: “We need to communicate differently. Discuss climate in terms of daily lives and the tangible actions that can come from addressing it. We can no longer afford to think in abstract terms.”

International Bodies Struggle for Support

The United Nations has classified climate change as the defining issue of our time, citing its potential to disrupt agriculture and elevate sea levels, yet the collective action needed is dwindling. World leaders will gather in Belem, Brazil, for the U.N.'s COP30 climate talks next month. This meeting marks a crucial juncture, 10 years since the notable Paris Climate Agreement aimed to curb emissions.

However, recent assessments highlight that this goal is nowhere near being achieved, considering the political climate and public sentiment that runs counter to urgent action on climate change.

A Broader Global Perspective

Interestingly, while climate anxiety is lessening in the U.S. and Western Europe, its perception is on the rise in countries like India, Brazil, and Japan. Bhattacharjee points to cultural and socio-economic factors driving these differences, suggesting that in regions where climate impacts are more immediate, public sentiment remains urgent.

Furthermore, while many may be less worried about climate change, the demand for environmentally friendly products remains strong. A global survey revealed that 72% of consumers prefer products that do not harm the planet. This craving for ecological preservation highlights a disconnect in the messaging around climate action and consumer behavior.

Recommendations Moving Forward

• Reassess Communication Strategies: Moving forward, more tailored messaging that resonates with local populations must be a priority in climate discourse.
• Address Economic Concerns: Policy solutions must incorporate economic realities and the immediate concerns of the populace to garner broader support.
• Reinforce Trust in Science: Combating misinformation and fostering trust in scientific data is essential to re-engage the public's urgency regarding climate action.

Conclusion: What Lies Ahead?

As geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties continue to rise, the focus on climate change may continue to diminish. The challenges posed by conflict and economic instability could overshadow critical climate imperatives. If we are to effect real change, a holistic approach that integrates climate solutions with immediate human concerns will be vital.

Indeed, the future of our planet rests not just on scientific advancements but on our collective capacity to prioritize climate action amidst the world's myriad crises.